WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is a hand fracture? A hand fracture is a break in one of the bones in your hand. This includes the bones in the wrist and fingers, and those that connect the wrist to the fingers. A hand fracture may be caused by twisting or bending the hand in the wrong way. It may also be caused by a fall, a crush injury, or a sports injury. What are the signs and symptoms of a hand fracture? - Pain or tenderness
- Swelling or bruising
- Problems moving your hand
- Abnormal bump, or abnormal shape of your hand
- Knuckle bone looks sunken in
How is a hand fracture diagnosed? Your healthcare provider will examine your hand and wrist, and ask about your injury. You may also need an x-ray. How is a hand fracture treated? - A cast or splint may be placed on your hand, wrist, and lower arm. It will prevent movement and help your hand heal.
- NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
- Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
- Prescription pain medicine may be given. Ask how to take this medicine safely.
- Closed reduction may be done to put your bones back into the correct position without surgery.
- Open reduction surgery may be needed to put your bones back into the correct position. This may include the use of special wires, pins, plates or screws. These help keep the broken pieces lined up so your hand can heal correctly.
How can I manage my symptoms? - Apply ice on your hand for 15 to 20 minutes every hour or as directed. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover it with a towel before you apply it to your skin. Ice helps prevent tissue damage and decreases swelling and pain.
- Elevate your hand above the level of your heart as often as you can. This will help decrease swelling and pain. Prop your hand on pillows or blankets to keep it elevated comfortably.
- Go to physical therapy as directed. A physical therapist teaches you exercises to help improve movement and strength and to decrease pain.
When should I seek immediate care? - You have severe pain that does not get better, even with pain medicine.
- Your injured hand or forearm is cold, numb, or pale.
- Your cast or splint gets wet, damaged, or comes off.
- Your arm feels warm, tender, and painful. It may look swollen and red.
When should I contact my healthcare provider? - You have new sores around your brace, cast, or splint.
- You notice a bad smell coming from under your cast.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
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